The longstanding conflict between Israel and Hamas has taken a dangerous turn with rockets being fired from Gaza into densely populated Israeli cities, including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. The U.S. embassy reported the attacks, highlighting the gravity of the situation, while the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have declared a state of alert for war in response.
In a statement, the IDF expressed its deep concern: “The IDF declares a state of alert for war. Over the past hour, the Hamas terrorist organization launched massive barrages of rockets from Gaza into Israel, and its terrorist operatives have infiltrated into Israel in a number of different locations in the south.”
This alarming development has left civilians in southern and central Israel urged to remain near shelters, while those near the Gaza Strip are advised to stay inside shelters. The IDF’s Chief of the General Staff is conducting a situational assessment and approving plans for continued activity, promising that Hamas will face consequences for these attacks.
The scale of the rocket attacks is staggering. Palestinian militants have reportedly fired at least 2,200 rockets towards Israel, according to the IDF. Hamas, on the other hand, claims that they have launched over 5,000 rockets, all targeting southern and central Israel. The Israeli population is now facing a barrage of projectiles, with air raid sirens sounding as early as 8:15 a.m. local time in Jerusalem, warning citizens of imminent danger.
Tragically, the conflict has already claimed lives and caused numerous injuries in Israel. At least six people have been killed, and more than 250 have been injured in the ongoing attacks. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the nation in a video statement, declaring, “We are at war. We will win.” These words reflect the resolve of the Israeli government to protect its citizens and maintain its security in the face of this escalating violence.
In response to the incursion by Hamas militants, the IDF has confirmed that they are conducting strikes on Hamas targets in Gaza. The situation remains fluid and unpredictable, with both sides engaged in a dangerous cycle of violence.
The international community is closely monitoring the situation, with the U.S. embassy issuing a statement early on Saturday morning. They acknowledged that casualties have already occurred due to these attacks and urged U.S. citizens in the region to remain vigilant, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of security incidents in this conflict.
As the situation continues to evolve, the world watches with growing concern, hoping for a swift and peaceful resolution to this devastating outbreak of violence.
